By MIKE CHAIKEN
CTFashionMag.com
A 17-year-old high school senior traveled from the Keystone State to the Nutmeg State and now the Big Apple in the Empire State is calling.
Stephanie Untch, an aspring model from Pittsburgh, Pa., won the Get Discovered modeling competition held by John Casablancas Modeling and Acting Agency in December at the Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut.
At the Get Discovered event, Stephanie competed against a slew of potential models, vying for the attention of several modeling agents with national ties.
“When I learned I won, I was ecstatic,” said Stephanie in an email interview. “There were so many other talented individuals at the competition so I felt incredibly honored and thankful to be chosen as the winner. Not to mention I was and still am insanely excited for the future.”
How did the Pennsylvania resident learn about an event in Connecticut? Stephanie said, “I heard about the JC Top Model Competition from my mom.”
“I recognized the opportunity to be life-changing and I knew I couldn’t let it pass me by,” said Stephanie.
To prepare for the competition, Stephanie said, “I studied different types of poses and walks from various models. Also, I studied my face a bit.”
“Even though staring at yourself for awhile may seem strange, knowing your angles is very useful,” said Stephanie.
Stephanie plans to attend college in New York City to further her modeling and fashion career, which is her dream job.
“From a young age, I always admired fashion and people within the fashion industry, so as I grew up I tried to find a way to immerse myself within that world,” said Stephanie. “Modeling seemed like a challenging, yet fun and rewarding job if done right so I figured why not try and see what happens.”
”After realizing the positive influence the fashion industry had on my life, through inspiring my love for photography and design, I knew I wanted to be a part of it. This way, I can hopefully inspire other people like I was,” said Stephanie.
“I love the quick-paced, driven, and diverse environment (of fashion) as well as the beautiful, unique clothes,” said Stephanie. “This industry inspires me to achieve my dreams because it is filled with so many passionate people who have done just that.”
Right now, Get Discovered is Stephanie’s first step into modeling. “My passion definitely lays within editorial and runway,” she explained.
Stephanie may get a chance to walk on the runway at New York Fashion Week. She has been meeting with the powers-that-be in New York City who might be able to make that happen.
“If things go my way,” said Stephanie. “This February will be my first time walking in New York Fashion Week. I have been studying up on walks and practicing mine so hopefully I make it on to the runway. Here, I can meet countless new people and hopefully pick up some new tricks as well.”
As for long term goals in fashion, Stephanie said, she would like “to be on the covers of established magazines or become the face of a brand.”
“Personally,” said Stephanie, “I adore bold patterns and color so I would love to one day work with the amazing designs of Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Emilio Pucci, or Moschino.”
All photos are by Kaela Speicher
